Pasquali Reatly Group, A Northern Virginia Realty Company wants to suggest the following ways for homeowners to save on energy costs this winter.

Turn down the thermostat.
People can save 2-3% in energy costs for every degree they lower their thermostat. Lowering the heat from 72º to 65º for eight hours per day can save as much as 10% on annual heating costs. Try lowering the heat as people leave for the day and just before going to bed. Or use a programmable thermostat; it will automatically turn the heat down and then have the house warm when needed.

Drafty windows?
If homeowners have functional windows, it makes more financial sense to improve them than to replace them with energy-efficient windows. Caulk any gaps and cracks around window frames. Be sure that windows are fully shut. Put up interior window plastic, available in kits at hardware stores. If homeowners don't have storm windows, They can have them made. Also, for drafty doors, use weather-stripping and door sweeps.

Keep the furnace or boiler in shape.
Oil-fired systems need annual maintenance. Gas systems and heat pumps typically need a checkup every two years. Spending a little on a new filter will go a long way toward maintaining the efficiency of the furnace and decreasing energy bills.

Close dampers when not using the fireplace.
An open fireplace damper pulls warm air from the house, even when there is no fire. Close dampers after ashes have gone cold.

Let the heat reach out.
Dust or vacuum radiators, baseboard heaters, and furnace duct openings often and keep them free of obstructions like furniture, carpets, and drapes.

Keep the cold out and warmth in.
A typical house has many places where air can move between living spaces and the attic, and between the basement and outdoors. The result is colder rooms and higher heating bills. The solution is to seal gaps and then put in sufficient, well-installed insulation.

Save electricity.
Replace incandescent light bulbs with ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent light bulbs, which use up to 75% less energy. Also, be aware that many kinds of home electronics and office equipment use power even when off. Control this ongoing energy waste by plugging devices into a power strip and just turning it off when not using the equipment. Or ask the local hardware store about a new, advanced power strip that automatically shuts off power to any idle equipment desired.

Look for the ENERGY STAR label.
When planning to purchase a new heating system, appliances, or home electronics, look for the ENERGY STAR label to find the most energy-efficient models on the market.

Pasquali Realty Group is an incorporated business that is a subsidiary under NBI Realty, and is currently licensed in both Virginia, and Washington, DC. They are a member of the National Board of Realtors(NAR), Virginia Board of Realtors(VAR), and Northern Virginia Board of Realtors(NVAR).